Probationer is back in custody for allegedly assaulting his neighbor

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — A man who is on probation for an assault conviction from last year was arrested over the weekend on the allegation that he assaulted his neighbor.

Faitala Tomasi made his initial appearance in court this week.

He is charged with one count of second degree assault, a class D felony, punishable by up to 5 years in jail, a fine of up to $5,000 or both; and two misdemeanors: trespass and third degree property damage.

If he is able to post a $5,000 bond, Tomasi is ordered to remain law abiding, not leave or attempt to leave the territory without prior permission from the court, and not make any direct or indirect contact with the government’s witnesses, including the victim.

Preliminary hearing is next Tuesday, Aug. 20th.

According to the government’s case, a person at the victim's house contacted police for assistance, after Tomasi went over to the victim’s home and struck him on the head with a piece of wood.

The victim sustained head injuries and as a result, was admitted to the LBJ Hospital where he underwent surgery. Five stitches were needed to close the gap on the left side of the victim’s head.

According to the victim’s statement to police, he was fixing the back door of his home when Tomasi walked over and called out his name.

The victim said he came out to see what Tomasi wanted and was shocked when Tomasi struck him on the head with a piece of wood he was holding.

The victim said he fell to the ground and while he was down, Tomasi kicked his back and punched him twice on his face.

Tomasi was arrested at his home and transported to the Tafuna Substation for questioning. When asked about the alleged incident, Tomasi told police that the victim threw a rock that damaged the front windshield of his vehicle, which was parked in front of his house.

Tomasi allegedly admitted to police that he assaulted the victim, by hitting him on the head with a piece of wood.